Find dozens of ideas for things to do, activities and events in Des Moines

Through Nov. 25

It’s a Wonderful Life, The Radio Play

The holiday classic “It’s a Wonderful Life” comes to life as a 1940s radio broadcast, performed by five actors in the Iowa Stage Theatre Company with the help of live sound effects. 7:30 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Wednesday, 2 p.m. Sunday. Kum & Go Theater, 900 Mulberry St. Tickets are $20 for students, $30 for seniors and $35 for adults at iowastage.org.

Through Jan. 13, 2019

Triple Espresso

Triple Espresso is back at the Temple Theater. This Des Moines-favorite comedy tells the story of three guys, Hugh Butternut, Buzz Maxwell and Bobby Bean, whose showbiz bid ended in 4 minutes of magnificent failure on national television. 1011 Locust St. Tickets start at $20. See showtimes and purchase tickets at desmoinesperformingarts.org.

Nov. 21-25

Disney on Ice Celebrates 100 Years of Magic

Celebrate the legacy of Disney through 14 classic and modern stories, featuring more than 50 beloved characters, in this epic production. Featuring an international team of award-winning figure skaters and songs like “Let It Go!”, “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” and “Hakuna Matata,” this Disney on Ice performance is the ultimate Disney fan experience. See iowaeventscenter.com for times. Tickets start at $21 at HyVeeTix.com.

Nov. 22

Des Moines Turkey Trot

The Des Moines Turkey Trot is the city’s largest Thanksgiving tradition and was named one of the best turkey trots in the country by Runner’s World magazine. Choose from the 5K, 5-Mile or Tot Trot run and run through the Court District, State Capitol Complex and East Village. Learn more and register at desmoinesturkeytrot.com.

Nov. 23-Dec. 29

Jolly Holiday Lights

One of the most popular Des Moines holiday traditions, Jolly Holiday Lights invites families to enjoy more than 100 light displays in the 2.5 mile route through Adventureland Park. Presented by Hy-Vee, Jolly Holiday Lights gives 100 percent of its proceeds to Make-A-Wish Iowa. $20 per car. Open daily 5:30-10:30 p.m. 3300 Adventureland Drive, Altoona.

Nov. 24

Des Moines Hungry Turkey Half Marathon & 5K

The Des Moines Hungry Turkey Run has joined Thanksgiving runs around the country to form a multi-city running festival called the American Turkey Tradition. Choose from the 5K or Half Marathon, get a medal for finishing and enjoy warm, gooey cinnamon rolls at tegh finish line. Learn more and register at iowaruns.com/desmoineshungryturkeyrun.

November 27

Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band

Rescheduling a postponed tour from 2017, Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band will bring their “Old Time Rock and Roll” to Wells Fargo Arena. Hear hits like “Night Moves,” “Turn the Page,” “Hollywood Nights” and more. 7:30 p.m. 730 Third St. Tickets start at $57 at HyVeeTix.com.

Nov. 28

Aaron Lewis: Songs and Stories Tour

With his newer take on classic Outlaw Country, Aaron Lewis’ new album SINNER features candid and personal lyrics along with a no-apologies country sound. Hear him play acoustically when he makes a stop at Hoyt Sherman Place on his Songs and Stories Tour. 8 p.m. 1501 Woodland Ave. Tickets start at $25 at hoytsherman.org.

Kenny G

Grammy Award-winning saxophonist Kenny G has sold more than 75 million records worldwide over his 40-plus-year career. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear the most famous saxophone player perform live, sharing festive holiday tunes and contemporary classics during his The Miracles Holidays and Hits Tour at Stephens Auditorium, 1900 Center Drive, Ames. 8 p.m. Tickets start at $35 at ticketmaster.com.

Nov. 28-Dec. 9

Disney’s 'Aladdin'

This all-new musical features all your favorite songs from the Disney movie, along with new music written by Tony and Academy Award winner Alan Menken. Directed and choreographed by Tony Award Winner Casey Nicholaw (“The Book of Mormon,” “Something Rotten!”), the show boasts incredible sets, costume and lighting, with other Tony Award winners behind the scenes. See the musical during its run at the Des Moines Civic Center, 221 Walnut St. Tickets start at $40. Visit desmoinesperformingarts.org for show dates and times and to order tickets.

Nov. 29

Lorie Line and Her Pop Chamber Orchestra: Lord of Lords

Kick off the Christmas season with pianist Lorie Line’s 2018 Holiday Extravaganza, with the theme of “Lord of Lords,” a sequel to last year’s show. Line brings her Pop Chamber Orchestra with her, along with a guest vocalist. Continue the holiday tradition of a Lorie Line concert, or begin this year. 7:30 p.m. Hoyt Sherman Place, 1501 Woodland Ave. Tickets are $59.50 at hoytsherman.org.

Nov. 29-Dec. 13

Jingle in the Junction

Visit Historic Valley Junction “after hours,” from 5-9 p.m., on November 29 and December 6 and 13 for Jingle in the Junction. Take a horse and trolley ride under 150,000 twinkling holiday lights, enjoy caroling, visits with Santa, ice sculptures and more.

Nov. 30

'Noel'

See the Christmas musical by author Eoin Colfer, creator of the Artemis Fowl series, and movie composer Liam Bates when it plays for one night at Stephens Auditorium in Ames. “Noel” tells the story of a young girl whose mother has gone missing and who has lost her singing voice. When she runs across a motley crew of characters who wish to help her, they rediscover their belief in the magic of Christmas and in themselves. 7:30 p.m. 1900 Center Drive, Ames. Tickets start at $35 at ticketmaster.com.

Nov. 30-Dec. 1

Holly & Ivy Home Tour

Tour the grand 1920s Salisbury House estate as it’s all decked out for the holidays during the Holly & Ivy Home Tour. Each room will be decorated by the finest local interior designers, florists and home furnishing stores. Two different private homes will also be featured on each day of the event. 4025 Tonawanda Drive. Purchase a one-day ticket for $20 or a two-day ticket for $35 at salisburyhouse.org.

Nov. 30-Dec. 23

'Elf: The Musical'

Based on the classic 2003 movie, “Elf: The Musical” tells the story of Buddy, a human raised as an elf at the North Pole, who one day realizes he’s “not like the other elves.” Buddy heads to New York, where he learns that his dad doesn’t believe in Santa Claus. 7 p.m. Fridays, 1 and 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Des Moines Community Playhouse, 831 42nd St. Tickets start at $29 at dmplayhouse.com.

Dec. 1

Terrace Hill Holiday Open House

Celebrate the spirit of the season during the free holiday open house at Terrace Hill, 2300 Grand Ave., from 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Tour the mansion to see the holiday decorations and enjoy refreshments while listening to festive tunes played from the 1869 Steinway grand piano.

Peter Yarrow & Noel Paul Stookey

Folk musicians Peter Yarrow and Noel Paul Stookey carry on the tradition of the renowned folk group Peter, Paul and Mary, a union that lasted 50 years until Mary’s passing in 2009. Experience Peter and Paul live at Hoyt Sherman Place, 1501 Woodland Ave. 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $49.50 at hoytsherman.org.

December 3

The Front Bottoms & Manchester Orchestra

Indie rock bands The Front Bottoms and Manchester Orchestra are teaming up to co-headline number of shows during the holiday season, including one at Seven Flags Event Center. 2100 NW 100th St., Clive. 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $29.50 in advance at ticketfly.com or $34 at the door.

December 5

A Not-So-Silent Night Holiday Concert & Soirée

The Des Moines Gay Men’s Chorus will perform its annual holiday concert at Salisbury House. Following the concert, Salisbury House will host its first annual holiday soirée where guests will be greeted with a welcome glass of bubbly and can enjoy delectable nibbles while admiring the beautiful holiday décor throughout the house. $40, salisburyhouse.org or 515-274-1777. 6 to 9 p.m.

December 6

Des Moines Storytellers Project: War Stories

Hear your neighbors and fellow community members tell their War Stories in this installment of the Des Moines Storytellers Project. Showtimes are 5:30 and 8:30 p.m. at The Tea Room, 713 Walnut St., Suite 600. General admission tickets, which are first-come, first-served seating, are $10. VIP tickets, which include access to premium seating and one free drink, are $25. Purchase tickets at tickets.desmoinesregister.com, or pay $5 more per ticket at the door.

December 7-9

The Nutcracker

Ballet Des Moines presents its 17th annual production of the holiday tradition “The Nutcracker” at Hoyt Sherman Place, 1501 Woodland Ave. Join Clara, her magical prince and toys that come to life as a mysterious gift the night before Christmas. 7 p.m. Friday, 1 and 7 p.m. Saturday, 1 and 5 p.m. Sunday. Tickets start at $28 at hoytsherman.org.

December 8

7th Annual Single Moms Christmas Dinner

Single Parent Provision, along with a host of community sponsors, invite single mothers in Central Iowa to a special Christmas dinner in their honor. The event will include a meal, program, gifts and prizes. Childcare is provided. 5-8 p.m. Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center, 833 5th Ave. Free, but registration is required at single parentprovision.org/ChristmasDinner.

Hot Club of San Francisco: Cool Yule Holiday Concert

Instrumental in the gypsy jazz revival, Hot Club of San Francisco includes band leader and guitarist Paul Mehling, Isabelle Fontaine (vocals, guitar), Evan Price (violin), Jordan Samuels (guitar) and Sam Rocha (bass). Hear them play an upbeat holiday concert that integrates traditional favorites with the unique style HCF is known for. 7:30 p.m. Sheslow Auditorium at Drake University, 2507 University Ave. Tickets are $30-$60 at civicmusic.org.

December 9

The Blenders

See the harmony-based quartet The Blenders as they put on a performance of original music and popular holiday songs. This is an all-ages show. 7 p.m. Prairie Meadows, 1 Prairie Meadows Drive, Altoona. Tickets are $39 at prairiemeadows.com.

Christmas with the Choral Society

The Des Moines Choral Society, led by conductor Dr. James Rodde and accompanist Elaine Wedeking, will perform their annual Christmas with the Choral Society at St. Ambrose Cathedral, complete with sing-along carols. 7:30 p.m. 607 High St. Tickets start at $25 for adults are $15 for kids or students at dmchoral.org.

Dec. 14

Celebrate Iowa Gala

Funds raised at the Celebrate Iowa Gala support programs, exhibits and initiatives of the State Historical Society of Iowa and the State Historical Museum of Iowa. This year’s Gala will feature the soundtrack of Iowa, with Iowa musicians such as River Glen, The Awful Purdies and Dirty Rotten Scoundrels playing the greatest hits from Iowa’s past. Enjoy a night of Iowa culture, cocktails and cuisine. 7-11 p.m. State Historical Building, 600 E. Locust St. Tickets are $100 or $75 for Young Professionals at iowaculture.gov/gala.

Dec. 14-15

Tonic Sol-fa Holiday Show

Don’t miss this favorite Emmy Award-winning a capella group as they bring a brand-new stage show to Hoyt Sherman Place, full of the humor and soulful melodies that have made the Tonic Sol-fa Holiday Show a holiday tradition for many people. They will perform for two nights, 7:30 p.m. 1501 Woodland Ave. Tickets start at $35.50 for adults and $22 for kids 12 and under. Order yours at hoytsherman.org.

Dec. 14-23

'A Christmas Carol'

Bring the entire family to the Des Moines Social Club’s Kum & Go Theater for this classic holiday play that follows Scrooge as he visits three ghosts to learn about the true meaning of Christmas. 7:30 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays. 900 Mulberry St. Tickets are $20-$40 at desmoinessocialclub.org.

Dec. 15

Hy-Vee Classic 2018

See the Iowa Hawkeyes take on the Iowa State Cyclones take on the Drake Bulldogs at 3:30 p.m., followed by the Iowa Hawkeyes taking on the UNI Panthers in men’s basketball, with both games held at Wells Fargo Arena, 730 Third St. Tickets start at $30 at HyVeeTix.com.

World Food Prize Holiday Open House

Hear holiday music and experience the spectacular acoustics in this historic building and explore our world through photos. Free. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Dec. 16

Jim McDonough and His Orchestra and Singers: Holiday Grande 2018

Hear International Steinway Artist Jim McDonough and his 14-piece professional orchestra, along with a cast of professional singers and dancers, as they perform your favorite Christmas music and all-time classics in front of the backdrop of a dazzling set. Proceeds benefit Camp Courageous of Iowa. 2:30-5:30 p.m. Hoyt Sherman Place, 1501 Woodland Ave. Tickets start at $29 at hoytsherman.org.

Home Free: A Country Christmas

The five-man band Home Free has become known for their show-stopping performances that mix their signature all-vocal music with their quick-witted humor. Don’t miss their all-new production, featuring more country and holiday favorites. 3:30 p.m. Stephens Auditorium, 1900 Center Drive, Ames. Tickets start at $19.50 at ticketmaster.com.

Dec. 17

'Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical'

The favorite holiday animated special is brought to life on stage. See all the beloved characters, including Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius and of course Rudolph, as they come together to find out that what makes you different can be what makes you special.

Terrace Hill Holiday Tea

Step back in time to experience a holiday tea at Terrace Hill, the Iowa Governor’s Residence and National Historic Landmark. Enjoy tea, scones, tea sandwiches and cakes in the historic rooms of the mansion all decked out for the holidays. 2-3:30 p.m. 2300 Grand Ave. Tickets are $40 at pmterracehilltea.eventbrite.com.

Dec. 18-19

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis

See the show that has been a holiday tradition for over 30 years — Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis. Created by Grammy Award winner Chip Davis, the show includes Mannheim Steamroller Christmas classics along with a selection of compositions from Davis’ groundbreaking Fresh Aire series, which introduced the Mannheim sound to America, as well as dazzling multimedia effects. 7:30 p.m. Des Moines Civic Center, 221 Walnut St. Tickets start at $51 at desmoinesperformingarts.org.

Dec. 20

For King & Country’s 'Little Drummer Boy' Christmas Tour

Christian pop duo For King & Country make a stop on their “Little Drummer Boy” Christmas tour extravaganza at Wells Fargo Arena, with special guest Cory Asbury. The two-time GRAMMY Award winners just released their newest album “Burn the Ships.” 7 p.m. 730 Third St. Tickets start at $30.50 at HyVeeTix.com.

Dec. 23

'A Charlie Brown Christmas' Live on Stage

See a fresh take on the timeless classic Christmas special “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” which has been aired on television for over 50 years, when “A Charlie Brown Christmas Live on Stage” comes to Stephens Auditorium, just two days before Christmas. Live actors maintain the integrity and spirit of each Peanuts character in this adaptation, during which you can still enjoy the unforgettable sounds of the Vince Guaraldi musical score. 3:30 p.m. 1900 Center Drive, Ames. Tickets start at $28 at ticketmaster.com.

Dec. 29

Ring In & Rock Out with Arch Allies

The ultimate Pre-NYE Party will be at Prairie Meadows with tribute band Arch Allies. Say goodbye to 2018 with all the hits from your favorite rock bands, including Journey, Styx, REO Speedwagon, Boston, Bon Jovi and Def Leppard. Enjoy a fully stocked bar and signature cocktails. 8 p.m. 1 Prairie Meadows Drive, Altoona. General admission tickets are $25 at prairiemeadows.com.

Dec. 31

New Year’s Eve Pops: From West Side Story to Wicked

Ring in the New Year at the hottest party in Central Iowa — the Des Moines Symphony’s New Year’s Eve Pops concert. This year, enjoy Broadway music from the Tony Award-nominated Callaway Sisters, as they sing showstopping hits from West Side Story, Chicago, Funny Girl, Wicked and more, all backed by the Des Moines Symphony under the direction of Joseph Giunta. 8 p.m. Des Moines Civic Center, 221 Walnut St. Tickets are $35-$90 at desmoinesperformingarts.org.

Jan. 4-20

'The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane'

Des Moines Playhouse Children’s Theatre presents “The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane,” a play based on the book by Kate DiCamillo about a toy china rabbit who is very happy but also very self-centered. When he finds himself ripped away from his owner, 10-year-old Abilene, he begins to realize how selfish he has been and begins to learn how to care for others. 7 p.m. Fridays, 1 and 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. 831 42nd St. Tickets are $19-$23 at dmplayhouse.com.

January 6-March 31

Botanical Blues

Take a break from the cold weather and take advantage of the warmth of the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden on Sundays through the end of March, where blues concerts will be held for the public in the Conservatory, with Bob Pace playing Jan. 6, Scott Davis and John Mattingly playing Jan. 13, Cindy Grill and Alan Smith performing Jan. 20 and J.D. Flanagan and Pat Hemann performing Jan. 27. Tickets are $10 for non-members and free for members. 2-4 p.m. 909 Robert D. Ray Drive. Learn more and order tickets at dmbotanicalgarden.com.

January 15

Ordinarius

Brazil’s award-winning vocal group makes its U.S. debut this month, with a stop at the Temple for Performing Arts. Primarily an a capella group, with three female and three male singers, they also use guitar and ukulele to round out their sound. See them perform the songs of Carmen Miranda. 7:30 p.m. 1011 Locust St. Tickets start at $29 at desmoinesperformingarts.org.

January 18-19

Kidsfest

Iowa’s largest children’s festival, Children and Families of Iowa’s Kidsfest, presented by Veridian Credit Union, takes place for two days at the Varied Industries Building on the Iowa State Fairgrounds. Enjoy free entertainment on multiple stages, meet costumed characters and mascots, explore the exhibits, burn off some energy at the bounce houses, try out the plush amusement rides, pet some animals, create make-and-take activities and more. 6-9 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday. 3000 E. Grand Ave. Tickets are $7.50 each.

January 19

An Evening with the Julian Lage Trio

Guitarist Julian Lage performed at the Grammy Awards at age 13, and just two years later he joined the faculty at the Stanford Jazz Workshop at Stanford University. With two Grammy Award nominations under his belt, makes his Des Moines debut with his trio at Sheslow Auditorium, presented by the Civic Music Association. 7:30 p.m. 2507 University Ave. Tickets are $20-$40 at civicmusic.org.

January 20

Jesse Cook

Award-winning guitarist Jesse Cook, known for his own signature fusion of world music, comes to Hoyt Sherman Place to perform live. See why he’s been nominated for 11 Juno Awards (Canada’s Grammy Awards). 8 p.m. 1501 Woodland Ave. Tickets start at $29.50 in advance at hoytsherman.org and $35 the day of the show.

The Hot Sardines

The Hot Sardines bring new and timeless jazz music together in and innovative and joyful way, garnering them numerous accolades and stints atop the Billboard charts. Hear the New York-based ensemble perform live at the Temple Theater, 1011 Locust St. 2 and 6:30 p.m. Tickets start at $36 at desmoinesperformingarts.org.

January 22-February 10

Sex Tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man

See this fun romantic comedy, where an author event is turned into an audience interactive sex tip seminar. Temple Theater, 1011 Locust St. Visit desmoinesperformingarts.org for show dates and times. Tickets start at $30.

January 25

Winter Jam Tour Spectacular 2019

Don’t miss Christian music’s biggest annual tour as it makes a stop at Wells Fargo Arena for an unforgettable show. For the first time, it will be presented on a 360-degree “in the round” center stage, featuring musicians like Danny Gokey, Mandisa, NewSong, Rend Collective, Newsboys United and more. The Pre-Jam Party starts at 6 p.m., with the concert beginning at 7. 730 Third St. Purchase tickets at iowaeventscenter.com.

January 25-26

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets in Concert

Watch the film “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” in high-definition on a giant screen in the Des Moines Civic Center while the Des Moines Symphony, under the direction of Joseph Giunta, performs the unforgettable score by John Williams. 7:30 p.m. Friday, 1:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday. 221 Walnut St. Tickets start at $50 at desmoinesperformingarts.org.

January 25-February 10

Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery

Based on a novel by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, “Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery” features the famous detective and his trusty sidekick John Watson traveling to the moors of Devonshire to solve the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville and protect the next heir to the family fortune from the supernatural legend that curses the family. 7:30 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday. Des Moines Community Playhouse, 831 42nd St. Tickets are $29-$37 at dmplayhouse.com.

January 26

Little River Band

The Little River Band was the first band to achieve a Top 10 hit in six consecutive years, including “Reminiscing,” “Lonesome Loser,” “Take It Easy on Me” and many more hits. Hear them perform live at Hoyt Sherman Place, 1501 Woodland Ave. 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $35 at hoytsherman.org.

February 23-24

Fisherman's Swap Meet and Boat Show

The 41st Original Fisherman's Swap Meet and Boat Show will be held at the 4-H Building at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. The event is sponsored by the Mid Iowa Bassmasters.